What does HVAC replacement cost?
$6,000 – $12,000 installed for a full central AC replacement — furnaces run $4,500 – $9,000, and heat pumps $8,000 – $16,000.
Repairs average $250–$650. The honest rule of thumb: if the repair costs more than half of replacement and the unit is 10+ years old, put the money toward the new system.
Cost breakdown
Diagnostic + common repair
$250 – $650Capacitors, contactors, refrigerant leaks
Central AC replacement
$6,000 – $12,000Equipment + install, typical 2–3 ton home
Furnace replacement (gas)
$4,500 – $9,000High-efficiency models at the top of the range
Heat pump system
$8,000 – $16,000Heats and cools; check current federal/state incentives
Ductless mini-split (1–3 zones)
$3,500 – $10,000Additions, garages, and homes without ducts
National ranges — your local quotes may vary. Get an exact number free below.
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HVAC replacement estimate shortcuts
Use these when you are pricing replacement instead of a small repair. They help separate full-system, AC and furnace replacement, heat-pump, and estimate questions before you call a contractor.
Ballpark a system by equipment type, home size, and efficiency tier.
HVAC replacement costFull-system, AC and furnace, heat-pump, and ductwork pricing factors.
HVAC replacement estimate checklistCompare model numbers, sizing, permits, ductwork, warranty, and rebates.
AC and furnace replacement costMatched split-system pricing when both major pieces are old.
Heat pump replacement costDucted heat-pump, dual-fuel, backup heat, and rebate factors.
Fast answers for the HVAC replacement searches showing up now
Most early HVAC impressions are replacement and estimate questions: full system, AC and furnace together, furnace-only, and quote-comparison searches. Start with the scope that matches your quote instead of treating every HVAC project like the same price.
Before you buy HVAC filters
Some HVAC problems look like filter-shopping problems. Use these guides before you upgrade filter type or size.
Researching hvac homeowner demand? Start with the contractor guide before choosing any acquisition channel.
Contractor guide ->Unlock the quote checklist
Use this before you compare hvac estimates, so every quote covers the same assumptions.
What moves your price
Size (tonnage)
Bigger isn't better — an oversized unit short-cycles and dies young. A real load calculation beats a guess.
Ductwork condition
Leaky or undersized ducts can eat 20–30% of a new system's performance. Good installers check before quoting.
Efficiency rating
Higher SEER2 costs more up front and pays back in hot climates and long ownership. Mid-tier is right for most.
Incentives
Heat pumps may qualify for federal tax credits and utility rebates that change the math by thousands — ask for current numbers.
Individual hvac cost guides
Specific repairs, installs, treatments, and replacement jobs need their own price ranges. Start here if you already know the project.
How much does HVAC replacement cost?
A full HVAC replacement usually costs $7,500 - $18,000 installed when the home needs matched heating and cooling equipment. Replacing only one major piece is less: central AC replacement is often $4,500 - $12,000, furnace replacement is often $4,500 - $9,000, and heat pump replacement commonly lands around $6,000 - $15,000+.
Read cost guideHow much does AC and furnace replacement cost together?
Replacing an AC and furnace together often costs $8,000 - $20,000+ installed for a matched split system. Smaller homes with standard-efficiency equipment may land near the lower end; high-efficiency equipment, difficult access, duct corrections, or electrical/gas code work can push the total higher.
Read cost guideHow much does heat pump replacement cost?
Heat pump replacement commonly costs $6,000 - $15,000+ installed for a ducted system. High-efficiency cold-climate models, dual-fuel setups, electrical upgrades, duct corrections, or backup heat changes can push projects above that range.
Read cost guideHow much does it cost to replace a gas furnace?
Replacing a gas furnace runs $4,500–$9,000 installed for most homes — the unit itself costs $1,200–$4,500 depending on efficiency tier, and installation adds $1,500–$3,500 in labor. Higher-efficiency furnaces cost more upfront but can save $200–$500 per year in gas compared to a basic model.
Read cost guideWhat does AC condenser replacement cost?
Replacing the outdoor AC condenser unit costs $1,200 – $4,500 installed for the unit alone, or $3,500 – $7,500 when paired with a matching indoor coil and air handler — which is what most HVAC contractors recommend for a system over 10 years old. The price swings on tonnage, refrigerant type, and brand.
Read cost guideWhat does AC compressor replacement cost?
Replacing an AC compressor costs $1,500 – $3,000 including labor on most residential systems — but before you pay it, check two things: your warranty (compressors are commonly covered for 10 years) and your system's age. On a system over 10–12 years old, putting $2,000 into a compressor often costs more than a new system when you run the 5-year math.
Read cost guideWant the exact number for your house?
A local hvac pro can look at your exact situation and quote it — free, no obligation, and your info goes to one pro, not a call list.